She was recently given the four month all clear and has enlisted the help of a personal trainer as she prepares for the gruelling climb.

Claudia said: “We have done a lot of training and it is harder than I thought it was going to be when I suggested doing the three peaks. I had no idea it would be so difficult.

“I would consider myself relatively fit but this is a different kind of fitness. It is all about endurance. Walking and pounding is hard on the knees. It’s very different from running.”

The chief executive, who took just five days off work after surgery, said she had received invaluable help from the Tenovus telephone support service and its counsellors during her recovery.

She said: “I didn’t want to talk to my husband or friends.

“Counselling made me realise it was ok to be scared. It made me feel looked after and it’s all free.

“I want everyone who needs it to have the good experience I had using our services. My diagnosis has made me even more determined to complete this exciting challenge with our team in a good time.

Cancer support adviser Rachel Spencer organised the event and also is taking part in this weekend’s climb as part of the cancer support team.

She said: “I see the affect that cancer has and what people have to deal with every day. I also see the difference that can be made to people’s lives by having someone to turn to in order to answer their questions, guide them through practical concerns, or just have someone to talk to.

“I’m taking part to help us reach more people and make their journey a little smoother.

“For me, the climb is about doing something hard in order to make things easier for the people we support.”

Martin Flood, 25, from Canton, works for the charity and is looking forward to starting the challenge on Friday. He is part of Claudia’s team “The 49ers”.

He said: “We provide a service that makes a difference.

“The training has been tough, but I’m really looking forward to taking it on with the team.”

Both teams are appealing for donations in the final days before the climb.

To donate, visit the cancer support team’s fundraising page at virginmoneygiving.com/CST3peaks or Claudia’s team fundraising page at virginmoneygiving.com/team/tenovus49ers